John Pugliese

John Pugliese, 98, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2024, in Destin, FL. Born Giovanni Pugliese in Paris, France, on February 15, 1926, his parents, the late Nicolas and Caroline Pugliese, had immigrated from southern Italy seeking a better life.

He was predeceased by wife, Joan I. Pugliese, his son, Charlie Pugliese, and his grandson, John L. Pugliese.

He is survived by his four sons, John (Louise), Gerard (Faye), James (Patricia) and Jeffrey; 9 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

His childhood was marred by his mother's early death and the German occupation during World War II. As a teenager, he joined the French Resistance, which laid the groundwork for the Allied invasion. After France's liberation, he served in General George Patton's Third Army, fighting in the Battle of Metz and marching into Germany.

Following the war, he immigrated to the United States, marrying Joan Buckley in 1948. They were married for nearly 58 years until her passing, and together raised four boys. He lived the American dream as an immigrant and small business owner in the Washington, DC area.

He retired in 1992 to Destin, FL. In retirement he focused on his passions, friends, family, faith, exercise, and good food. Most mornings, you could find him at the gym, and evenings were often spent enjoying meals with loved ones and friends. His dedication to fitness was so impressive, that he was featured in a local news story, "96-year-old Destin WWII Veteran Stays Active to Inspire Others." (https://weartv.com/news/local/96-year-old-destin-wwii-veteran-stays-active-to-inspire-others#)

A true force of nature, he lived independently, including driving, until just six months before his passing. The unthinkable experiences of his early years seemed to have given him added strength to be grateful and appreciate his life. He was a relentlessly positive person, making friends wherever he went. He won the hearts of so many with his friendly smile, French accent and his zest for living. He was an inspiration to those who knew him and will be remembered.

A private interment memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 15th at 11:30 am at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Silver Spring, MD, followed by a reception at Clyde's Tower Oaks Lodge.